By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter Waimakariri’s mayor hopes to get answers on the future of Oxford Hospital soon. Dan Gordon chaired a community meeting in Oxford with Te Whatu Ora Health NZ on Tuesday to address concerns about the provision of healthcare in rural communities. The community has been calling for answers on the future of the hospital for some time, as the building is in need of maintenance and under-utilised. ‘‘Rural communities face a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare,’’ Mr Gordon said. ‘‘Distance is a major factor for many people - particularly older residents - travelling to larger centres for care is not easy or practical. ‘‘We also know our population is ageing, which means demand for local health services is increasing, not decreasing.’’ Mr Gordon said facilities like the Oxford Hospital played a vital role in meeting those needs. The nearest major hospital is in Christchurch, an almost hour journey away.…